Fiber reinforced polymer composition

ABSTRACT

The present invention refers to a fiber reinforced polymer composition comprising a polypropylene, carbon fibers, fibers other than carbon fibers and a polar modified polypropylene as coupling agent as well as to an article comprising the fiber rein forced polymer composition.

The present invention refers to a fiber reinforced polymer composition comprising a polypropylene, carbon fibers, fibers other than carbon fibers and a polar modified polypropylene as coupling agent as well as to an article comprising the fiber reinforced polymer composition.

Fiber reinforced polymer compositions are widely used. However in addition to the requirements of stiffness and impact resistance, light weight has become an important requirement for many applications in the car. In general there are two possibilities to support these requirements, namely one decreases the density of the material or one increases the material stiffness. As regards the stiffness increase, it can be generally obtained by adding fibers as reinforcing material into the polymer. For example, glass fibers are widely used as reinforcing material because of their good processability, excellent properties and low price. Also, carbon fibers are well known as reinforcing material because of their low density in combination with high stiffness. Nevertheless, the addition of fibers as reinforcing material typically results in an overall increase of density such that a sufficient light weight material having well-balanced mechanical properties such as high stiffness and impact is only difficult to obtain.

Accordingly, the automobile industries seek for a composite material fulfilling the demanding requirements of well-balanced mechanical properties such as high stiffness and impact at light weight.

The finding of the present invention is to use fiber reinforced polymer composition comprising carbon fibers as well as fibers other than carbon fibers in combination with a specific polar modified polypropylene in a polypropylene.

Accordingly the present invention is directed to a fiber reinforced polymer composition comprising

-   (a) from 20 to 89 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of a polypropylene (PP1); -   (b) from 5 to 60 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of carbon fibers (CF); -   (c) from 5 to 60 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of fibers (F) other than carbon     fibers (CF); and -   (d) from 1 to 10 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of a polar modified polypropylene     (PMP) as coupling agent,     wherein the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) comprises groups     derived from polar groups in an amount of from 1 to 5 wt.-%, based     on the total weight of the polar modified polypropylene (PMP).

In one embodiment, the polypropylene (PP1) has

-   (a) a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C., 2.16 kg) measured according to     ISO 1133 of not more than 75 g/10 min; and/or -   (b) a melting temperature T_(m) in the range of 158 to 170° C.

In another embodiment, the polypropylene (PP1) is a propylene homopolymer (H-PP1).

In yet another embodiment, the carbon fibers (CF) are in the form of a non-woven fabric.

In one embodiment, the non-woven fabric comprises at least 50 wt.-% carbon fibers (CF), based on the total weight of the non-woven fabric.

In another embodiment, the fibers (F) are selected from the group comprising glass fibers, metal fibers, mineral fibers, ceramic fibers and mixtures thereof.

In yet another embodiment, the carbon fibers (CF) and/or the fibers (F) comprise a sizing agent.

In one embodiment, the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) comprises groups derived from polar groups selected from the group consisting of acid anhydrides, carboxylic acids, carboxylic acid derivatives, primary and secondary amines, hydroxyl compounds, oxazoline and epoxides, and also ionic compounds.

In another embodiment, the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) is a propylene polymer grafted with maleic anhydride.

In yet another embodiment, the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) is a propylene copolymer grafted with maleic anhydride, preferably the propylene copolymer grafted with maleic anhydride comprises ethylene as comonomer units.

In one embodiment, the fiber reinforced polymer composition further comprises from 1 to 10 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of a polypropylene (PP2) having a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C., 2.16 kg) measured according to ISO 1133 of >100 g/10 min.

In another embodiment, the fiber reinforced polymer composition further comprises at least one additive in an amount of up to 20 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition.

In yet another embodiment, the fiber reinforced polymer composition has

-   (a) a density of equal or less than 1.200 g/cm³; and/or -   (b) a tensile modulus according to ISO 178 of at least 8200 MPa;     and/or -   (c) a tensile strength according to ISO 527-2 in the range of 100 to     150 MPa.

Another aspect of the present invention is directed to an article comprising the fiber reinforced polymer composition as defined herein. Preferably, the article is a molded article, more preferably an injection molded article or a foamed article. It is further preferred that the article is a part of washing machines or dishwashers or automotive articles, especially of car interiors and exteriors, like instrumental carriers, shrouds, structural carriers, bumpers, side trims, step assists, body panels, spoilers, dashboards, interior trims and the like.

Where the term “comprising” is used in the present description and claims, it does not exclude other elements. For the purposes of the present invention, the term “consisting of” is considered to be a preferred embodiment of the term “comprising of”. If hereinafter a group is defined to comprise at least a certain number of embodiments, this is also to be understood to disclose a group, which preferably consists only of these embodiments.

Where an indefinite or definite article is used when referring to a singular noun, e.g. “a”, “an” or “the”, this includes a plural of that noun unless something else is specifically stated.

Terms like “obtainable” or “definable” and “obtained” or “defined” are used interchangeably. This e.g. means that, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the term “obtained” does not mean to indicate that e.g. an embodiment must be obtained by e.g. the sequence of steps following the term “obtained” even though such a limited understanding is always included by the terms “obtained” or “defined” as a preferred embodiment.

In the following the invention is defined in more detail.

The Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composition

The fiber reinforced polymer composition according to this invention comprises a polypropylene (PP), carbon fibers (CF), fibers (F) other than carbon fibers (CF) and a polar modified polypropylene (PMP) as coupling agent.

Accordingly, the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises

-   (a) from 20 to 89 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of a polypropylene (PP1); -   (b) from 5 to 60 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of carbon fibers (CF); -   (c) from 5 to 60 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of fibers (F) other than carbon     fibers (CF); and -   (d) from 1 to 10 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of a polar modified polypropylene     (PMP) as coupling agent, wherein the polar modified polypropylene     (PMP) comprises groups derived from polar groups in an amount of     from 1 to 5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the polar modified     polypropylene (PMP).

Additionally, the fiber reinforced polymer composition may comprise a polypropylene (PP2) and/or at least one additive and/or one or more further polar modified polypropylene (PMP2).

Accordingly it is preferred that the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises

-   (a) from 20 to 89 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of a polypropylene (PP1); -   (b) from 5 to 60 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of carbon fibers (CF); -   (c) from 5 to 60 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of fibers (F) other than carbon     fibers (CF); -   (d) from 1 to 10 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of a polar modified polypropylene     (PMP) as coupling agent, wherein the polar modified polypropylene     (PMP) comprises groups derived from polar groups in an amount of     from 1 to 5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the polar modified     polypropylene (PMP); and -   (e) from 1 to 10 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of a polypropylene (PP2) having a     melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C., 2.16 kg) measured according to ISO     1133 of >100 g/10 min.

Additionally or alternatively, the present invention is directed to a fiber reinforced polymer composition comprising

-   (a) from 20 to 89 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of a polypropylene (PP1); -   (b) from 5 to 60 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of carbon fibers (CF); -   (c) from 5 to 60 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of fibers (F) other than carbon     fibers (CF); -   (d) from 1 to 10 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of a polar modified polypropylene     (PMP) as coupling agent, wherein the polar modified polypropylene     (PMP) comprises groups derived from polar groups in an amount of     from 1 to 5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the polar modified     polypropylene (PMP); and -   (e) up to 20 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of at least one additive.

Additionally or alternatively, the present invention is directed to a fiber reinforced polymer composition comprising

-   (a) from 20 to 89 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of a polypropylene (PP1); -   (b) from 5 to 60 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of carbon fibers (CF); -   (c) from 5 to 60 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of fibers (F) other than carbon     fibers (CF); -   (d) from 1 to 10 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of a polar modified polypropylene     (PMP) as coupling agent, wherein the polar modified polypropylene     (PMP) comprises groups derived from polar groups in an amount of     from 1 to 5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the polar modified     polypropylene (PMP); and -   (e) from 1 to 10 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of one or more further polar     modified polypropylene (PMP2), wherein the one or more further polar     modified polypropylene (PMP2) comprises groups derived from polar     groups in an amount of from 0.5 to 3 wt.-%, based on the total     weight of the one or more further polar modified polypropylene     (PMP2).

Preferably, the present invention is directed to a fiber reinforced polymer composition comprising

-   (a) from 20 to 89 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of a polypropylene (PP1); -   (b) from 5 to 60 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of carbon fibers (CF); -   (c) from 5 to 60 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of fibers (F) other than carbon     fibers (CF); -   (d) from 1 to 10 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of a polar modified polypropylene     (PMP) as coupling agent, wherein the polar modified polypropylene     (PMP) comprises groups derived from polar groups in an amount of     from 1 to 5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the polar modified     polypropylene (PMP); -   (e) from 1 to 10 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of a polypropylene (PP2) having a     melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C., 2.16 kg) measured according to ISO     1133 of >100 g/10 min; -   (f) up to 20 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of at least one additive; and -   (g) from 1 to 10 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber     reinforced polymer composition, of one or more further polar     modified polypropylene (PMP2), wherein the one or more further polar     modified polypropylene (PMP2) comprises groups derived from polar     groups in an amount of from 0.5 to 3 wt.-%, based on the total     weight of the one or more further polar modified polypropylene     (PMP2).

In one embodiment, the fiber reinforced polymer composition according to this invention does not comprise (a) further polymer(s) different to the polymers present in the fiber reinforced polymer composition, i.e. different to the polypropylene (PP1), the optional polypropylene (PP2), the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) and the optional one or more further polar modified polypropylene (PMP2), in an amount exceeding in total 10 wt.-%, preferably exceeding in total 5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition. Typically if an additional polymer is present, such a polymer is a carrier polymer for additives and thus does not contribute to the improved properties of the claimed fiber reinforced polymer composition.

Accordingly in one specific embodiment the fiber reinforced polymer composition consists of the polypropylene (PP1), the optional polypropylene (PP2), the polar modified polypropylene (PMP), the carbon fibers (CF), the fibers (F) other than carbon fibers (CF), the optional one or more further polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) and the optional at least one additive, which might contain low amounts of polymeric carrier material. However this polymeric carrier material is not more than 10 wt.-%, preferably not more than 5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, present in said fiber reinforced polymer composition.

Therefore the present invention is especially directed to a fiber reinforced polymer composition consisting of

-   (a) from 20 to 89 wt.-%, more preferably from 30 to 80 wt.-%, most     preferably from 40 to 70 wt.-%, like from 50 to 65 wt.-%, based on     the total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of a     polypropylene (PP1); -   (b) from 5 to 60 wt.-%, more preferably from 5 to 40 wt.-%, most     preferably from 10 to 30 wt.-%, like from 15 to 25 wt.-%, based on     the total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of     carbon fibers (CF); -   (c) from 5 to 60 wt.-%, more preferably from 5 to 40 wt.-%, most     preferably from 5 to 20 wt.-%, like from 5 to 15 wt.-%, based on the     total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of     fibers (F) other than carbon fibers (CF); -   (d) from 1 to 10 wt.-%, more preferably from 2 to 8 wt.-%, most     preferably from 3 to 6 wt.-%, like from 4 to 5 wt.-%, based on the     total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of a polar     modified polypropylene (PMP) as coupling agent, wherein the polar     modified polypropylene (PMP) comprises groups derived from polar     groups in an amount of from 1 to 5 wt.-%, based on the total weight     of the polar modified polypropylene (PMP); and -   (e) up to 20 wt.-%, more preferably from 0.1 to 10 wt.-%, most     preferably from 0.1 to 5 wt.-%, like from 0.1 to 2 wt.-%, based on     the total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of at     least one additive.

In case the fiber reinforced polymer composition further comprises a polypropylene (PP2) having a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C., 2.16 kg) measured according to ISO 1133 of >100 g/10 min and/or at least one additive and/or one or more further polar modified polypropylene (PMP2), the fiber reinforced polymer composition consists of

-   (a) from 20 to 89 wt.-%, more preferably from 30 to 80 wt.-%, most     preferably from 40 to 70 wt.-%, like from 50 to 65 wt.-%, based on     the total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of a     polypropylene (PP1); -   (b) from 5 to 60 wt.-%, more preferably from 5 to 40 wt.-%, most     preferably from 10 to 30 wt.-%, like from 15 to 25 wt.-%, based on     the total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of     carbon fibers (CF); -   (c) from 5 to 60 wt.-%, more preferably from 5 to 40 wt.-%, most     preferably from 5 to 20 wt.-%, like from 5 to 15 wt.-%, based on the     total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of     fibers (F) other than carbon fibers (CF); -   (d) from 1 to 10 wt.-%, more preferably from 2 to 8 wt.-%, most     preferably from 3 to 6 wt.-%, like from 4 to 5 wt.-%, based on the     total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of a polar     modified polypropylene (PMP) as coupling agent, wherein the polar     modified polypropylene (PMP) comprises groups derived from polar     groups in an amount of from 1 to 5 wt.-%, based on the total weight     of the polar modified polypropylene (PMP); and -   (e) from 1 to 10 wt.-%, more preferably from 2 to 8 wt.-%, most     preferably from 4 to 7 wt.-%, like from 4 to 6 wt.-%, based on the     total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of a     polypropylene (PP2) having a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C., 2.16 kg)     measured according to ISO 1133 of >100 g/10 min; and/or -   (f) up to 20 wt.-%, more preferably from 0.1 to 10 wt.-%, most     preferably from 0.1 to 5 wt.-%, like from 0.1 to 2 wt.-%, based on     the total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of at     least one additive; and/or -   (g) from 1 to 10 wt.-%, more preferably from 2 to 8 wt.-%, most     preferably from 3 to 6 wt.-%, like from 4 to 5 wt.-%, based on the     total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of one or     more further polar modified polypropylene (PMP2), wherein the one or     more further polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) comprises groups     derived from polar groups in an amount of from 0.5 to 3 wt.-%, based     on the total weight of the one or more further polar modified     polypropylene (PMP2).

The term “additives” covers also additives which are provided as a masterbatch containing the polymeric carrier material as discussed above. However the term “additive” does not cover nucleating agents, e.g. α-nucleating agents. Typical additives are acid scavengers, antioxidants such as phenolic antioxidant (AO) and the hindered amine light stabilizer (HALS), colorants, pigments such as talc, anti-scratch agents, dispersing agents and carriers.

The term “at least one” additive in the meaning of the present invention means that the additive comprises, preferably consists of, one or more additive(s).

In one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one additive comprises, preferably consists of, one additive. Alternatively, the at least one additive comprises, preferably consists of, a mixture of two or more additives. For example, the at least one earth alkali hydrogen carbonate comprises, preferably consists of, of a mixture of two or three additives.

Preferably, the at least one additive comprises, more preferably consists of, a mixture of two or more additives.

In addition the fiber reinforced polymer composition contains preferably a α-nucleating agent. Even more preferred the present fiber reinforced polymer composition is free of β-nucleating agents. Accordingly, the nucleating agent is preferably selected from the group consisting of

-   (i) salts of monocarboxylic acids and polycarboxylic acids, e.g.     sodium benzoate or aluminum tert-butylbenzoate, and -   (ii) dibenzylidenesorbitol (e.g. 1,3:2,4 dibenzylidenesorbitol) and     C₁-C₈-alkyl-substituted dibenzylidenesorbitol derivatives, such as     methyldibenzylidenesorbitol, ethyldibenzylidenesorbitol or     dimethyldibenzylidenesorbitol (e.g. 1,3:2,4 di(methylbenzylidene)     sorbitol), or substituted nonitol-derivatives, such as     1,2,3,-trideoxy-4,6:5,7-bis-O-[(4-propylphenyl)methylene]-nonitol,     and -   (iii) salts of diesters of phosphoric acid, e.g. sodium     2,2′-methylenebis (4,6,-di-tert-butylphenyl) phosphate or     aluminium-hydroxy-bis[2,2′-methylene-bis(4,6-di-t-butylphenyl)phosphate],     and -   (iv) vinylcycloalkane polymer and vinylalkane polymer, and -   (v) mixtures thereof.

Preferably the fiber reinforced polymer composition contains as α-nucleating agent a vinylcycloalkane polymer and/or a vinylalkane polymer.

Such additives and nucleating agents are generally commercially available and are described, for example, in “Plastic Additives Handbook”, 5th edition, 2001 of Hans Zweifel.

Preferably the fiber reinforced polymer composition has melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C., 2.16 kg) measured according to ISO 1133 of not more than 75 g/min, preferably in the range of 1 to 75 g/10 min, more preferably in the range of 1 to 60 g/10 min, like in the range of 5 to 50 g/10 min.

In a preferred embodiment the fiber reinforced polymer composition has

-   (a) a density of equal or less than 1.200 g/cm³, more preferably in     the range of 0.800 kg/m³ to 1.200 g/cm³, most preferably in the     range of 0.900 kg/m³ to 1.100 g/cm³, like in the range of 1.000     g/cm³ to 1.100 g/cm³; and/or -   (b) a tensile modulus according to ISO 527-2 at least 8200 MPa, more     preferably of at least 9000 MPa, most preferably of at least 10000     MPa, like in the range of 10000 MPa to 13000 MPa; and/or -   (c) a tensile strength according to ISO 527-2 in the range of 100 to     150 MPa, more preferably in the range of 110 to 150 MPa, most     preferably in the range of 120 to 150, like in the range of 130 MPa     to 150 MPa.

For example the fiber reinforced polymer composition has

-   (a) a density of equal or less than 1.200 g/cm³, more preferably in     the range of 0.800 g/cm³³ to 1.200 g/cm³, most preferably in the     range of 0.900 g/cm³ to 1.100 g/cm³, like in the range of 1.000     g/cm³ to 1.100 g/cm³; or -   (b) a tensile modulus according to ISO 527-2 of at least 8200 MPa,     more preferably of at least 9000 MPa, most preferably of at least     10000 MPa, like in the range of 10000 MPa to 13000 MPa; -   (c) a tensile strength according to ISO 527-2 in the range of 100 to     150 MPa, more preferably in the range of 110 to 150 MPa, most     preferably in the range of 120 to 150, like in the range of 130 MPa     to 150 MPa.

Alternatively, the fiber reinforced polymer composition has

-   (a) a density of equal or less than 1.200 g/cm³, more preferably in     the range of 0.800 g/cm³ to 1.200 g/cm³, most preferably in the     range of 0.900 g/cm³ to 1.100 g/cm³, like in the range of 1.000     g/cm³ to 1.100 g/cm³; and -   (b) a tensile modulus according to ISO 527-2 of at least 8200 MPa,     more preferably of at least 9000 MPa, most preferably of at least     10000 MPa, like in the range of 10000 MPa to 13000 MPa; and -   (c) a tensile strength according to ISO 527-2 in the range of 100 to     150 MPa, more preferably in the range of 110 to 150 MPa, most     preferably in the range of 120 to 150, like in the range of 130 MPa     to 150 MPa.

In addition, the present invention also relates to a process for the preparation of the fiber reinforced polymer composition as described above and in more detail below, comprising the steps of adding

-   (a) the polypropylene (PP1); -   (b) the carbon fibers (CF); -   (c) the fibers (F) other than carbon fibers (CF); -   (d) the polar modified polypropylene (PMP); -   (e) the optional polypropylene (PP2); -   (f) the optional at least one additive; -   (g) the optional one or more further polar modified polypropylene     (PMP2)     to an extruder and extruding the same obtaining said fiber     reinforced polymer composition.

The fiber reinforced polymer composition according to the invention may be compounded and pelletized using any of the variety of compounding and blending machines and methods well known and commonly used in the resin compounding art. However, it is preferred using a compounding and blending method that does not affect the carbon fiber dimensions or the dimensions of the fibers other than carbon fibers.

For blending the individual components of the instant composition a conventional compounding or blending apparatus, e.g. a Banbury mixer, a 2-roll rubber mill, Buss-co-kneader or a twin screw extruder may be used. The polymer materials recovered from the extruder/mixer are usually in the form of pellets. These pellets are then preferably further processed, e.g. by injection molding to generate articles and products of the inventive composition.

In the following the individual components of the fiber reinforced polymer composition are described in more detail.

The Polypropylene (PP1)

The fiber reinforced polymer composition must comprise a polymer component. To achieve the well-balanced mechanical properties such as high stiffness and impact at light weight, the polymer must contain a specific polypropylene. Good stiffness can be inter alia achieved due to the presence of a polypropylene (PP1). Preferably, a polypropylene (PP1) having a high molecular weight.

In the present invention the term “polypropylene (PP1)” encompasses propylene homopolymer, propylene random copolymers, heterophasic polymers and mixtures thereof.

Moreover, the term “propylene copolymer” encompasses propylene random copolymers, heterophasic polymers and mixtures thereof.

As known for the skilled person, random propylene copolymer is different from heterophasic polypropylene which is a propylene copolymer comprising a propylene homo or random copolymer matrix component (1) and an elastomeric copolymer component (2) of propylene with one or more of ethylene and C₄-C₈ alpha-olefin copolymers, wherein the elastomeric (amorphous) copolymer component (2) is dispersed in said propylene homo or random copolymer matrix polymer (1).

In one embodiment of the present invention, the polypropylene (PP1) being present in the fiber reinforced polymer composition is a propylene homopolymer (H-PP1) and/or a propylene copolymer (C-PP1). For example, the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises a propylene homopolymer (H-PP1) and a propylene copolymer (C-PP1).

Alternatively, the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises a propylene homopolymer (H-PP1) or a propylene copolymer (C-PP1).

In one specific embodiment the polypropylene (PP1) is a propylene copolymer (C-PP1), preferably a heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO) as defined in detail below.

Preferably, the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises a propylene homopolymer (H-PP1) as the polypropylene (PP1).

In the following the polypropylene (PP1) being part of the fiber reinforced polymer composition will be defined in more detail.

In one embodiment, the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises a propylene homopolymer (H-PP1).

The expression propylene homopolymer as used throughout the instant invention relates to a polypropylene that consists substantially, i.e. of more than 99.5 wt.-%, still more preferably of at least 99.7 wt.-%, like of at least 99.8 wt.-%, of propylene units. In a preferred embodiment only propylene units in the propylene homopolymer are detectable.

In a preferred embodiment, good stiffness is achieved due to the presence of a propylene homopolymer (H-PP1) with high molecular weight. Accordingly it is preferred that the propylene homopolymer (H-PP1) has a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C., 2.16 kg) measured according to ISO 1133 of not more than 100 g/10 min, more preferably in the range of 2 to 50 g/10 min, still more preferably in the range of 10 to 30 g/10 min, like in the range of 15 to 25 g/10 min.

Additionally or alternatively, the propylene homopolymer (H-PP1) has a melting temperature T_(m) in the range of 150 to 170° C., more preferably in the range of 155 to 170° C., yet more preferably in the range of 158 to 170° C., like in the range of 160 to 170° C.

Preferably, the propylene homopolymer (H-PP1) has a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C., 2.16 kg) measured according to ISO 1133 of not more than 100 g/10 min, more preferably in the range of 2 to 50 g/10 min, still more preferably in the range of 10 to 30 g/10 min, like in the range of 15 to 25 g/10 min; and a melting temperature T_(m) in the range of 150 to 170° C., more preferably in the range of 155 to 170° C., yet more preferably in the range of 158 to 170° C., like in the range of 160 to 170° C.

The propylene homopolymer (H-PP1) preferably features a low amount of xylene cold solubles (XCS), i.e. of ≤4.0 wt.-%, preferably in the range from 0.1 to 4.0 wt.-%, more preferably in the range from 0.1 to 3.0 wt.-% and most preferably in the range from 0.1 to 2.5 wt.-%.

The propylene homopolymer (H-PP1) may be produced in the presence of a single-site catalyst, e.g. a metallocene catalyst, or in the presence of a Ziegler-Natta catalyst.

The propylene homopolymer (H-PP1) is state of the art and commercial available. A suitable propylene homopolymer is for instance Bormed HF955MO of Borealis AG.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the polypropylene (PP1) is a propylene copolymer (C-PP1).

The term “propylene copolymer (C-PP1)” covers random propylene copolymers (RC-PP1) as well as complex structures, like heterophasic systems.

The term “random propylene copolymer” denotes a copolymer of propylene monomer units and comonomer units, in which the comonomer units are randomly distributed in the polymeric chain. Thus, a random copolymer is different from a heterophasic copolymer comprising a matrix phase and an elastomeric phase dispersed therein, as described in detail below. Accordingly, the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP1) does not contain an elastomeric polymer phase dispersed therein, i.e. is monophasic and has just one glass transition temperature. However, the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP1) can be the matrix phase of a heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO). The presence of second phases or the so called inclusions are for instance visible by high resolution microscopy, like electron microscopy or atomic force microscopy, or by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA). Specifically in DMTA the presence of a multiphase structure can be identified by the presence of at least two distinct glass transition temperatures.

Thus, the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP1) preferably comprises, preferably consist of, units derived from

-   (i) propylene and -   (ii) ethylene and/or at least one C₄ to C₂₀ α-olefin, preferably at     least one α-olefin selected from the group consisting of ethylene,     1-butene, 1-pentene, 1-hexene and 1-octene, more preferably ethylene     and/or 1-butene, yet more preferably ethylene.

Accordingly, the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP1) may comprise units derived from propylene, ethylene and optionally at least another C₄ to C₁₀ α-olefin. In one embodiment of the present invention, the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP1) comprises units derived from propylene, ethylene and optionally at least another α-olefin selected from the group consisting of C₄ α-olefin, C₅ α-olefin, C₆ α-olefin, C₇ α-olefin, C₈ α-olefin, C₉ α-olefin and C₁₀ α-olefin. More preferably the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP1) comprises units derived from propylene, ethylene and optionally at least another α-olefin selected from the group consisting of 1-butene, 1-pentene, 1-hexene, 1-heptene, 1-octene, 1-nonene and 1-decene, wherein 1-butene and 1-hexene are preferred. It is in particular preferred that the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP1) consists of units derived from propylene and ethylene. Preferably, the units derivable from propylene constitutes the main part of the propylene copolymer (C-PP1), i.e. at least 80 wt.-%, more preferably of at least 85 wt.-%, still more preferably of 80 to 99.5 wt.-%, yet more preferably of 85 to 99.5 wt.-%, still more preferably of 90 to 99.2 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP1). Accordingly, the amount of units derived from C₂ to C₂₀ α-olefins other than propylene in the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP1) is in the range of 0.5 to 20 wt.-%, more preferably of 0.5 to 15 wt.-%, still more preferably of 0.8 to 10 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP1). It is in particular appreciated that the amount of ethylene in the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP1), in particular in case the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP1) comprises only units derivable from propylene and ethylene, is in the range of 0.5 to 15 wt.-%, preferably of 0.8 to 10 wt.-%, more preferably of 0.8 to 8 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP1).

Additionally, it is appreciated that the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP1) has a melting temperature T_(m) of at least 130° C., preferably in the range of 135 to 160° C., more preferably in the range of 130 to 158° C., like in the range of 140 to 155° C.

Concerning the melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C.), is appreciated that the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP1) preferably has a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C.) has a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C., 2.16 kg) measured according to ISO 1133 of not more than 100 g/10 min, more preferably in the range of 2.0 to 50 g/10 min, still more preferably in the range of 10 to 30 g/10 min, like in the range of 15 to 25 g/10 min.

In one aspect of the present invention, the polypropylene (PP1) is a heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO).

Preferably the heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO) comprises

-   (a) a polypropylene matrix (M-HECO), and -   (b) an elastomeric propylene copolymer (E).

The expression “heterophasic” indicates that the elastomeric copolymer (E) is preferably (finely) dispersed at least in the polypropylene matrix (M-HECO) of the heterophasic propylene copolymer (M-HECO). In other words the elastomeric copolymer (E) forms inclusions in the polypropylene matrix (M-HECO). Thus, the polypropylene matrix (M-HECO) contains (finely) dispersed inclusions being not part of the matrix and said inclusions contain the elastomeric copolymer (E). The term “inclusion” according to this invention shall preferably indicate that the matrix and the inclusion form different phases within the heterophasic propylene copolymer (M-HECO), said inclusions are for instance visible by high resolution microscopy, like electron microscopy or scanning force microscopy. Furthermore, the heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO) preferably comprises as polymer components only the polypropylene matrix (M-HECO) and the elastomeric copolymer (E). In other words the heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO) may contain further additives but no other polymer in an amount exceeding 5 wt-%, more preferably exceeding 3 wt.-%, like exceeding 1 wt.-%, based on the total heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO), more preferably based on the polymers present in the heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO). One additional polymer which may be present in such low amounts is a polyethylene which is a reaction product obtained by the preparation of the heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO). Accordingly, it is in particular appreciated that a heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO) as defined in the instant invention contains only a polypropylene matrix (M-HECO), an elastomeric copolymer (E) and optionally a polyethylene in amounts as mentioned in this paragraph.

The elastomeric copolymer (E) is preferably an elastomeric propylene copolymer (E1).

As explained above a heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO) comprises a polypropylene matrix (M-HECO) in which the elastomeric copolymer (E), such as the elastomeric propylene copolymer (E1), is dispersed.

The polypropylene matrix (M-HECO) can be a propylene homopolymer (H-PP2) or a random propylene copolymer (RC-PP2).

However, it is preferred that the propylene matrix (M-HECO) is a propylene homopolymer (H-PP2).

The polypropylene matrix (M-HECO) being a propylene homopolymer (H-PP2) has a rather low xylene cold soluble (XCS) content, i.e. of not more than 3.5 wt.-%, preferably of not more than 3.0 wt.-%, like not more than 2.6 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the polypropylene matrix (M-HECO). Thus, a preferred range is 0.5 to 3.0 wt.-%, more preferred 0.5 to 2.5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the propylene homopolymer (H-PP2).

In one embodiment of the present invention, the polypropylene matrix (M-HECO) is a propylene homopolymer (H-PP2) having a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C.) from 2.0 to 700 g/10 min, more preferably of from 4.0 to 400 g/10 min, still more preferably of from 15.0 to 200 g/10 min and most preferably of from 20.0 to 100 g/10 min.

If the polypropylene matrix (M-HECO) is a random propylene copolymer (RC-PP2), the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP2) preferably comprises, preferably consist of, units derived from

-   (i) propylene and -   (ii) ethylene and/or at least one C₄ to C₈ α-olefin, preferably at     least one α-olefin selected from the group consisting of ethylene,     1-butene, 1-pentene, 1-hexene and 1-octene, more preferably ethylene     and/or 1-butene, yet more preferably ethylene.

Accordingly, the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP2) may comprise units derived from (i) propylene and (ii) ethylene and/or at least one C₄ to C₈ α-olefin. In one embodiment of the present invention the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP2) comprises units derived from (i) propylene and (ii) an at least one α-olefin selected from the group consisting of ethylene 1-butene, 1-hexene and 1-octene. It is in particular preferred that the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP2) consists of units derived from propylene and ethylene. Preferably, the units derivable from propylene constitutes the main part of the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP2), i.e. at least 92 wt.-%, preferably of at least 95 wt.-%, more preferably of at least 98 wt.-%, still more preferably of 92 to 99.5 wt.-%, yet more preferably of 95 to 99.5 wt.-%, still more preferably of 98 to 99.2 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the random propylene copolymer (RC-PP2).

Furthermore, it is appreciated that the xylene cold soluble (XCS) content of the polypropylene matrix (M-HECO) being a random propylene copolymer (RC-PP2) is a rather low. Accordingly, the propylene copolymer (C-PP2) has preferably a xylene cold soluble (XCS) fraction measured according to ISO 6427 (23° C.) of not more than 14 wt-%, more preferably of not more than 13 wt.-%, yet more preferably of not more than 12 wt.-%, like not more than 11.5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the propylene copolymer (C-PP2). Thus, a preferred range is 1 to 14 wt.-%, more preferred 1.0 to 13 wt.-%, still more preferred 1.2 to 11 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the propylene copolymer (C-PP2).

In one embodiment of the present invention, the random propylene copolymer (C-PP2) has a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C.) from 2.0 to 700 g/10 min, more preferably of from 4.0 to 400 g/10 min, still more preferably of from 15.0 to 200 g/10 min and most preferably of from 20.0 to 100 g/10 min.

The second component of the heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO) is the elastomeric copolymer (E). As mentioned above the elastomeric copolymer (E) is preferably an elastomeric propylene copolymer (E1). In the following both elastomers are defined more precisely.

Preferably the elastomeric propylene copolymer (E1) comprises units derived from (i) propylene and (ii) ethylene and/or C₄ to C₂₀ α-olefins, preferably from (i) propylene and (ii) selected from the group consisting of ethylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene, and 1-octene. Preferably the propylene content in the elastomeric propylene copolymer (E1) is at least 40 wt.-%, more preferably at least 45 wt.-%. Thus in one preferred embodiment the elastomeric propylene copolymer (E1) comprises 40.0 to 85.0 wt.-%, more preferably 45.0 to 80 wt.-%, units derivable from propylene. The comonomers present in the elastomeric propylene copolymer (E1) are preferably ethylene and/or C₄ to C₂₀ α-olefins, like ethylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene and 1-octene. In one specific embodiment elastomeric propylene copolymer (E1) is a propylene-ethylene polymer. In one embodiment of the present invention, the elastomeric propylene copolymer (E1) is an ethylene propylene rubber (EPR1) with the amounts given in this paragraph.

Preferably the amount of the elastomeric copolymer (E), like the elastomeric propylene copolymer (E1), within the heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO) ranges from 15 to 45 wt.-%, more preferably in the range of 20 to 40 wt.-%, like in the range of 25 to 35 wt.-%.

The intrinsic viscosity (IV) of the xylene cold soluble (XCS) fraction of the heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO) is preferably moderate. Accordingly, it is appreciated that the intrinsic viscosity of the xylene cold soluble (XCS) fraction of the heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO) is below 3.3 dl/g, more preferably below 3.1 dl/g, and most preferably below 3.0 dug. Even more preferred the intrinsic viscosity of the xylene cold soluble (XCS) fraction of the heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO) is in the range of 1.5 to 3.3 dl/g, more preferably in the range 2.0 to 3.1 dl/g, still more preferably 2.2 to 3.0 dl/g.

It is especially preferred that heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO) comprises a propylene homopolymer (H-PP2) as the polypropylene matrix (M-HECO) and an ethylene propylene rubber (EPR1) as the elastomeric propylene copolymer (E1).

Preferably, the heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO) has a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C.) of not more than 100 g/10 min, more preferably in the range of 2.0 to 50 g/10 min, still more preferably in the range of 10 to 30 g/10 min, like in the range of 15 to 25 g/10 min.

The polypropylene (PP1) may comprise a nucleating agent which is preferably a polymeric nucleating agent, more preferably an alpha-nucleating agent, e.g. a polymeric alpha-nucleating agent.

The (alpha)-nucleating agent content of the polypropylene (PP1), or of one of its components, preferably of the polypropylene (PP1), is preferably up to 5.0 wt.-%. In a preferred embodiment, the polypropylene (PP1) or of one of its components, preferably of the polypropylene (PP1), contains not more than 3000 ppm, more preferably of 1 to 2000 ppm of a (a)-nucleating agent, in particular selected from the group consisting of dibenzylidenesorbitol (e.g. 1,3:2,4 dibenzylidene sorbitol), dibenzylidenesorbitol derivative, preferably dimethyldibenzylidenesorbitol (e.g. 1,3:2,4 di(methylbenzylidene) sorbitol), or substituted nonitol-derivatives, such as 1,2,3,-trideoxy-4,6:5,7-bis-O-[(4-propylphenyl)methylene]-nonitol, vinylcycloalkane polymer, vinylalkane polymer, and mixtures thereof.

In a preferred embodiment the polypropylene (PP1) or one of its components contains a vinylcycloalkane, like vinylcyclohexane (VCH), polymer and/or vinylalkane polymer, as the preferable alpha-nucleating agent. Preferably in this embodiment the polypropylene (PP1) contains a vinylcycloalkane, like vinylcyclohexane (VCH), polymer and/or vinylalkane polymer, preferably vinylcyclohexane (VCH).

The nucleating agent can be introduced as a masterbatch. Alternatively some alpha-nucleating agents as defined in the present invention, can be also introduced by BNT-technology as described below.

The nucleating agent may be introduced to the polypropylene (PP1) or one of its components e.g. during the polymerisation process of the polypropylene (PP1) or one of its components or may be incorporated to the propylene copolymer in the form of masterbatch (MB) together with e.g. a carrier polymer.

In case of the embodiment of a masterbatch (MB) incorporation the masterbatch (MB) contains a nucleating agent, which is preferably a polymeric nucleating agent, more preferably alpha-nucleating agent, most preferably a vinylcycloalkane, like vinylcyclohexane (VCH), polymer and/or vinylalkane polymer, preferably vinylcyclohexane (VCH) polymer, as defined above or below, in an amount of not more than 500 ppm, more preferably of 1 to 200 ppm, and still more preferably of 5 to 100 ppm, based on the weight of the masterbatch (MB) (100 wt. %). In this embodiment, more preferably, said masterbatch (MB) is present in an amount of not more than 10.0 wt.-%, more preferably not more than 5.0 wt.-% and most preferably not more than 3.5 wt.-%, with the preferred amount of masterbatch (MB) being from 1.5 to 3.5 wt.-%, based on the total amount of the polypropylene (PP1). Most preferably the masterbatch (MB) comprises, preferably consists of the homopolymer or copolymer, preferably homopolymer, of propylene which has been nucleated according to BNT-technology as described below.

It is preferred that the nucleating agent is introduced to the polypropylene (PP) during the polymerisation process of one of the components of the polypropylene (PP). The nucleating agent is preferably introduced to the polypropylene (PP) or one of its components by first polymerising the above defined vinyl compound, preferably vinylcycloalkane, as defined above or below, in the presence of a catalyst system comprising a solid catalyst component, preferably a solid Ziegler Natta catalyst component, a cocatalyst and optional external donor, and the obtained reaction mixture of the polymer of the vinyl compound, preferably vinyl cyclohexane (VCH) polymer, and the catalyst system is then used for producing the polypropylene (PP) or one of its components. The above incorporation of the polymeric nucleating agent to the polypropylene (PP) during the polymerization of said propylene copolymer is called herein as BNT-technology as described below.

Said obtained reaction mixture is herein below referred interchangeably as modified catalyst system.

Preferably the vinylcycloalkane is vinylcyclohexane (VCH) polymer which is introduced into the propylene copolymer by the BNT technology.

More preferably in this preferred embodiment, the amount of vinylcycloalkane, like vinylcyclohexane (VCH), polymer and/or vinylalkane polymer, more preferably of vinylcyclohexane (VCH) polymer, in the polypropylene (PP1), or of one of its components, preferably of the polypropylene (PP1), is not more than 500 ppm, more preferably of 1 to 200 ppm, most preferably 5 to 100 ppm.

With regard to the BNT-technology reference is made to the international applications WO 99/24478, WO 99/24479 and particularly WO 00/68315. According to this technology a catalyst system, preferably a Ziegler-Natta procatalyst, can be modified by polymerising a vinyl compound in the presence of the catalyst system, comprising in particular the special Ziegler-Natta procatalyst, an external donor and a cocatalyst, which vinyl compound has the formula:

CH₂═CH—CHR³R⁴

wherein R³ and R⁴ together form a 5- or 6-membered saturated, unsaturated or aromatic ring or independently represent an alkyl group comprising 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and the modified catalyst is used for the preparation of the polypropylene (PP1) according to this invention. The polymerized vinyl compound acts as an alpha-nucleating agent. The weight ratio of vinyl compound to solid catalyst component in the modification step of the catalyst is preferably of up to 5 (5:1), preferably up to 3 (3:1) most preferably from 0.5 (1:2) to 2 (2:1). The most preferred vinyl compound is vinylcyclohexane (VCH).

The Carbon Fibers (CF)

It is appreciated that the fiber reinforced polymer composition shall have well-balanced mechanical properties such as high stiffness and high impact. In order to ensure an excellent stiffness, the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises carbon fibers (CF). Thus, one essential component of the fiber reinforced polymer composition is the carbon fibers (CF).

The carbon fibers (CF) used in the fiber reinforced polymer composition have preferably an average length of from 0.5 to 300 mm, more preferably from 1.0 to 250 mm, for example 1.5 to 200 mm. More preferably, the carbon fibers (CF) used in the fiber reinforced polymer composition are preferably endless carbon fibers (CF). The carbon fibers preferably have an average diameter of from 2 to 30 μm, more preferably from 3 to 25 μm and most preferably from 5 to 20 μm.

Preferably, the carbon fibers (CF) have a density of from 1.3 to 2.2 g/cm³, more preferably from 1.4 to 2.1 g/cm³, most preferably from 1.5 to 1.9 g/cm³.

Preferably, the carbon fibers (CF) are in the form of a non-woven fabric.

Preferably, the non-woven fabric comprises at least 50 wt.-% carbon fibers (CF), more preferably at least 65 wt.-% carbon fibers, even more preferably at least 75 wt.-% carbon fibers (CF) and most preferably at least 80 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the non-woven fabric.

The non-woven fabric according to the invention may comprise polymeric compounds such as sizing agents and/or sewing threads.

It is appreciated that the non-woven fabric may be a recycled material which may contain additional compounds besides the preferred carbon fibers, e.g. sizing agents, glass fibers, sewing threads in a minor amount etc., depending on the intended first use.

In one embodiment, the non-woven fabric is free of polymeric materials. The carbon fibres are not considered to be polymeric materials.

If present, the amount of sewing thread is normally within the range of 0.25 to 10 wt. %, preferably within the range of 0.5 to 7.5 wt. % and most preferably within the range of 1.0 to 3.0 wt. % based on the total weight of the non-woven fabric. Suitable sewing threads are for example polyester fibres.

In one embodiment, the carbon fibers (CF), preferably the non-woven fabric, comprise a sizing agent in order to improve its wetting and coupling to the polymer matrix. Preferably, the carbon fibers (CF), preferably the non-woven fabric, comprise sizing agents on the surface of the fibers. Preferably, the carbon fibers (CF), preferably the non-woven fabric, comprise a sizing agent selected from epoxy resins, polyether-modified epoxy resins, polyurethane, amino-silane grafted polypropylene.

In one especially preferred embodiment, the carbon fibers (CF), preferably the non-woven fabric, comprise an epoxy-resin, more preferably a polyether-modified epoxy resin, as sizing agent. A suitable sizing agent is for example Duroxy SEF 968w distributed by Cytec. Film formers, lubricants, stabilizers and antistatic agents may also be comprised in the sizing agent.

Usually the amount of such sizing agent is 15 wt.-% or less, more preferably 10 wt.-% or less, and most preferably 7.5 wt.-% or less, based on the total weight of the carbon fibers (CF), preferably the non-woven fabric.

The non-woven fabric may be a recycled material which may contain these (and possibly also other) additional compounds besides the preferred carbon fibres.

In case the carbon fibers (CF) are in the form of a non-woven fabric, the non-woven fabric is preferably in the form of a stripe.

Usually the width of the stripe is not more than 300 mm. Preferably the stripe has a width of 10 to 300 mm, preferably a width of 25 to 250 mm and most preferably a width of 40 to 200 mm Additionally or alternatively, the stripe preferably has a length of at least 50 cm, more preferably of at least 150 cm, and most preferably of at least 250 cm.

The stripe may be in the form of a reel. Thus, the length is not particularly limited. However, the length is is not particularly limited, i.e. the stripe may be a so-called “endless stripe”.

The average weight of the non-woven fabric is preferably within the range of 100 to 1000 g/m², more preferably within the range of 150 to 800 g/m² and most preferably within the range of 250 to 650 g/m².

The non-woven fabric is further characterised by a constant weight per area. Thus, the difference in weight between two sections of the non-woven fabric having an identical area expressed as the quotient of the section having the higher weight to the section having the lower weight is preferably within 10%, more preferably within 5%.

The preparation of non-woven fabric from carbon fibers (CF), e.g. rovings, or recycled material which may be in the form of a laid web, is well-known in the art. Suitable processes are, for example needle punching.

Preferably, the non-woven fabric is in the form of a non-woven fabric, preferably obtained by needle-punching.

The Fibers (F) Other than Carbon Fibers (CF)

It is appreciated that the fiber reinforced polymer composition shall have a good impact behavior. Thus, another essential component of the fiber reinforced polymer composition is the fibers (F) other than carbon fibers.

Preferably the fibers (F) are selected from the group consisting of glass fibers, metal fibers, mineral fibers, ceramic fibers and mixtures thereof. Glass fibers (GF) are preferred.

Preferably the glass fibers (GF) are long glass fibers (GF).

The fibers (F), preferably the glass fibers (GF), used in the fiber reinforced polymer composition typically have an average length of from 0.1 to 300 mm, more preferably from 0.5 to 250 mm, for example 1 to 200 mm. The fibers (F), preferably the glass fibers (GF), used in the fiber reinforced polymer composition typically have an average diameter of from 8 to 30 μm, more preferably from 8 to 25 μm, for example 8 to 18 μm.

Preferably, the fibers (F), preferably the glass fibers (GF), have a density of from 2.0 to 3.0 g/cm³, more preferably from 2.2 to 2.9 g/cm³, most preferably from 2.3 to 2.7 g/cm³, such as from 2.4 to 2.6 g/cm³.

In one embodiment, the fibers (F), preferably the glass fibers (GF), comprise a sizing agent in order to improve its wetting and coupling to the polymer matrix. Preferably, the fibers (F), preferably the glass fibers (GF), comprise a sizing agent on the fiber surface. Preferably, the fibers (F), preferably the glass fibers (GF), comprise a sizing agent selected from epoxy resins, polyether-modified epoxy resins, polyurethane, amino-silane grafted polypropylene.

In one especially preferred embodiment, the fibers (F), preferably the glass fibers (GF), comprise an epoxy-resin, more preferably a polyether-modified epoxy resin, as sizing agent. A suitable sizing agent is for example Duroxy SEF 968w distributed by Cytec. Film formers, lubricants, stabilizers and antistatic agents may also be comprised in the sizing agent.

Usually the amount of such sizing agent is 15 wt.-% or less, more preferably 10 wt.-% or less, and most preferably 7.5 wt.-% or less, based on the total weight of the fibers (F), preferably the glass fibers (GF).

In case the carbon fibers (CF), preferably the non-woven fabric, as well as the fibers (F), preferably the glass fibers (GF), comprise a sizing agent selected from epoxy resins, polyether-modified epoxy resins, polyurethane, amino-silane grafted polypropylene, the sizing agent on the carbon fibers (CF), preferably the non-woven fabric, on the fibers (F), preferably the glass fibers (GF), is preferably the same in terms of sizing agent and/or amount.

It is especially preferred that the carbon fibers (CF), preferably the non-woven fabric, and the fibers (F), preferably the glass fibers (GF), comprise a sizing agent selected from epoxy-resin, more preferably a polyether-modified epoxy resin.

In order to achieve a well balanced impact/modulus behavior, it is preferred that the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises the fibers (F) in an amount being below the amount of the carbon fibers (CF). Thus, the fiber reinforced polymer composition preferably comprises the carbon fibers (CF) and the fibers (F) in a weight ratio ranging from 10:1 to 1.5:1, more preferably from 5:1 to 1.5:1 and most preferably from 3:1 to 1.5:1. For example, the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises the carbon fibers (CF) and the fibers (F) in a weight ratio of about 2:1.

In case the carbon fibers (CF) are in the form of a non-woven fabric, it is appreciated that the non-woven fabric may also comprise the fibers (F). Preferably, the non-woven fabric comprises the fibers (F) in an amount of less than 30 wt.-%, preferably less than 20 wt. % and most preferably less than 12 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the non-woven fabric. For example, the non-woven fabric comprises the fibers (F) in an amount of from 5 to 15 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the non-woven fabric.

The Coupling Agents

In order to achieve an easier and more uniform dispersion of the carbon fibers (CF) and fibers (F) other than carbon fibers (CF) in the polymer components which act in the fiber reinforced polymer composition as a matrix, the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises a specific coupling agent.

The coupling agent according to this invention is a specific polar modified polypropylene (PMP).

The polar modified polypropylene (PMP) preferably is a polypropylene containing polar groups. In the following the polypropylene will be defined more precisely which is subsequently modified to the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) as explained in detail below.

The polypropylene is preferably a propylene homopolymer or a random propylene copolymer, like a copolymer of (i) propylene and (ii) ethylene and/or C₄ to C₁₂ α-olefins, preferably from (i) propylene and (ii) an α-olefin selected from the group consisting of ethylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene, and 1-octene. Concerning the definition of “random” reference is made to the information provided above.

In one embodiment, the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) is a modified random propylene copolymer, wherein said random propylene copolymer comprises ethylene as the only comonomer unit.

Preferably, the units derivable from propylene constitutes the main part of the random propylene copolymer, i.e. at least 90.0 wt.-%, more preferably in the range of 92.0 to 99.5 wt.-%, yet more preferably of 92.5 to 98.0 wt.-%, even more preferably of 93.0 to 96.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the propylene copolymer. Accordingly, the amount of units derived from ethylene and/or C₄ to C₁₂ α-olefins, preferably derived from ethylene, in the random propylene copolymer is at most 10.0 wt.-%, more preferably in the range of 0.5 to 8.0 wt.-%, yet more preferably of 2.0 to 7.5 wt.-%, even more preferably of 4.0 to 7.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the random propylene copolymer. It is in particular appreciated that the random propylene copolymer only comprises units derivable from propylene and ethylene. The comonomer amounts given in this paragraph belong preferably to the random propylene copolymer which is not modified.

Additionally, it is appreciated that the random propylene copolymer has a melting temperature T_(m) in the range of 125 to 140° C., more preferably ranges from 128 to 138° C. and most preferably ranges from 131 to 136° C. The melting temperature given in this paragraph is the melting temperature of the non-modified random propylene copolymer.

Additionally or alternatively, the random propylene copolymer, i.e. the non-modified random propylene copolymer, has a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C.) measured according to ISO 1133 in the range from 1 to 30 g/10 min, preferably in the range of 1 to 20 g/10 min, more preferably in the range of 1 to 10 g/10 min, and most preferably in the range of 2 to 6 g/10 min.

It is appreciated that the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) comprises groups derived from polar groups. In this context, preference is given to polar modified polypropylene (PMP) comprising groups derived from polar compounds, in particular selected from the group consisting of acid anhydrides, carboxylic acids, carboxylic acid derivatives, primary and secondary amines, hydroxyl compounds, oxazoline and epoxides, and also ionic compounds.

Specific examples of the said polar groups are unsaturated cyclic anhydrides and their aliphatic diesters, and the diacid derivatives. In particular, one can use maleic anhydride and compounds selected from C₁ to C₁₀ linear and branched dialkyl maleates, C₁ to C₁₀ linear and branched dialkyl fumarates, itaconic anhydride, C₁ to C₁₀ linear and branched itaconic acid dialkyl esters, maleic acid, fumaric acid, itaconic acid and mixtures thereof.

In terms of structure, the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) is preferably selected from graft or block copolymers preferably of the above defined polypropylene, like the above defined random propylene copolymer.

Preferably the polar modified polypropylene (PMP), i.e. the coupling agent, is a polypropylene, like the random propylene copolymer as defined above in the section “the polyar modfied propylene (PMP) as coupling agent”, grafted with such polar group.

Particular preference is given to using a polypropylene, like the random propylene copolymer as defined above in the section “the polyar modfied propylene (PMP) as coupling agent”, grafted with maleic anhydride as the polar modified polypropylene (PMP), i.e. the coupling agent.

In one embodiment, the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) is a random propylene copolymer as defined above grafted with maleic anhydride. Thus in one specific prefered embodiment the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) is a random propylene ethylene copolymer grafted with maleic anhydride, more preferably wherein the ethylene content based on the total amout of the random propylene ethylene copolymer is in the range of 2.0 to 7.5 wt.-%, more preferably in the range of 4.0 to 7.0 wt.-%.

In order to achieve the desired dispersion of the carbon fibers (CF) in the polymer components ensuring that the fiber reinforced polymer composition provides the well-balanced mechanical properties such as high stiffness and impact at low density, it is appreciated that the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) comprises an amount of groups deriving from polar groups which is higher than that typically used in polar modified polypropylenes considered for polypropylenes.

Required amounts of groups deriving from polar groups in the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) are thus from 0.5 to 5.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the polar modified polypropylene (PMP). Preferably, the amount of groups deriving from polar groups in the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) are from 1.5 to 4.0 wt.-%, more preferably from 2.0 to 3.0 wt.-%, most preferably from 2.0 to 2.8 wt.-%, such as from 2.2 to 2.4 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the polar modified polypropylene (PMP).

Thus in one specific prefered embodiment the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) is a random propylene ethylene copolymer grafted with maleic anhydride, more preferably wherein the ethylene content based on the total amout of the random propylene ethylene copolymer is in the range of 2.0 to 7.5 wt.-%, more preferably in the range of 4.0 to 7.0 wt.-% and/or the amount of groups deriving from the maleic anhydride in the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) is from 1.5 to 4.0 wt.-%, more preferably from 2.0 to 3.0 wt.-%, most preferably from 2.0 to 2.8 wt.-%, such as from 2.2 to 2.4 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the polar modified polypropylene (PMP).

Preferred values of the melt flow index MFI (170° C.; 1.2 kg) measured in line with the general definitions of ISO 1133 for the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) are from 10 to 150 g/10 min, like in the range of 30 to 120 g/10 min. For example, the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) has a melt flow index MFI (170° C.; 1.2 kg) measured in line with the general definitions of ISO 1133 from 50 to 100 g/10 min, of from 60 to 80 g/10 min.

Preferred values of the melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C.; 2.16 kg) for the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) are from 350 to 600 g/10 min, like in the range of 400 to 550 g/10 min.

Additionally or alternatively, it is appreciated that the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) preferably has a melting temperature T_(m) in the range of 120 to 150° C., more preferably ranges from 125 to 145° C. and most preferably ranges from 130 to 140° C.

The polar modified polypropylene (PMP) can be produced in a simple manner by a two-step grafting process comprising a solid stage as a first step and a melt stage as a second step. Such process steps are well known in the art.

The polar modified polypropylene (PMP) is known in the art and commercially available. A suitable example is SCONA TSPP 3598 GB of BYK.

In one embodiment, the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) as defined above as the only polar modified polypropylene (PMP).

In an alternative embodiment, the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises one or more further polar modified polypropylene(s) (PMP2) in addition to the polar modified polypropylene (PMP). That is to say, the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises a mixture of two or more polar modified polypropylenes. Preferably, the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises a mixture of two polar modified polypropylenes.

In case the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises a mixture of polar modified polypropylenes, the mixture comprises the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) as defined above as a first polar modified polypropylene and one or more further polar modified polypropylene(s) (PMP2) differing from the polar modified polypropylene (PMP).

In one preferred embodiment, the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises a mixture of two polar modified polypropylenes, i.e. the mixture comprises the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) as defined above as a first polar modified polypropylene and one further polar modified polypropylene(s) (PMP2).

The one or more further polar modified polypropylene(s) (PMP2) is/are preferably a polypropylene containing polar groups. In the following the polypropylene of the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) will be defined more precisely which is subsequently modified to the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) as explained in detail below.

The polypropylene of the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) is preferably a propylene homopolymer or a random propylene copolymer, like a copolymer of (i) propylene and (ii) ethylene and/or C₄ to C₁₂ α-olefins, preferably from (i) propylene and (ii) an α-olefin selected from the group consisting of ethylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene, and 1-octene. Concerning the defintion of “random” reference is made to the information provided above.

In one embodiment, the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) is a modified random propylene copolymer, wherein said random propylene copolymer comprises ethylene as the only comonomer unit.

Additionally, it is appreciated that the random propylene copolymer of the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) has a melting temperature T_(m) in the range of 125 to 140° C., more preferably ranges from 128 to 138° C. and most preferably ranges from 131 to 136° C. The melting temperature given in this paragraph is the melting temperature of the non-modified random propylene copolymer.

Additionally or alternatively, the random propylene copolymer of the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2), i.e. the non-modified random propylene copolymer, has a melt flow rate MFR₂ (190° C.) measured according to ISO 1133 in the range from 1 to 500 g/10 min, preferably in the range of 20 to 150 g/10 min, more preferably in the range of 1 to 100 g/10 min.

It is appreciated that the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) comprises groups derived from polar groups. In this context, preference is given to polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) comprising groups derived from polar compounds, in particular selected from the group consisting of acid anhydrides, carboxylic acids, carboxylic acid derivatives, primary and secondary amines, hydroxyl compounds, oxazoline and epoxides, and also ionic compounds.

Specific examples of the said polar groups are unsaturated cyclic anhydrides and their aliphatic diesters, and the diacid derivatives. In particular, one can use maleic anhydride and compounds selected from C₁ to C₁₀ linear and branched dialkyl maleates, C₁ to C₁₀ linear and branched dialkyl fumarates, itaconic anhydride, C₁ to C₁₀ linear and branched itaconic acid dialkyl esters, maleic acid, fumaric acid, itaconic acid and mixtures thereof.

In terms of structure, the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) is preferably selected from graft or block copolymers preferably of the above defined polypropylene, like the above defined random propylene copolymer for the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2).

Preferably the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2), i.e. the coupling agent, is a polypropylene, like the random propylene copolymer for the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) as defined above in the section “the coupling agents”, grafted with such polar group.

Particular preference is given to using a polypropylene, like the random propylene copolymer for the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) as defined above in the section “the coupling agents”, grafted with maleic anhydride as the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2), i.e. the coupling agent.

In one embodiment, the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) is a random propylene copolymer as defined above grafted with maleic anhydride. Thus in one specific preferred embodiment the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) is a random propylene ethylene copolymer grafted with maleic anhydride, more preferably wherein the ethylene content based on the total amount of the random propylene ethylene copolymer is in the range of 2.0 to 7.5 wt.-%, more preferably in the range of 4.0 to 7.0 wt.-%.

Required amounts of groups deriving from polar groups in the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) are preferably from 0.5 to 3.0 wt.-%, more preferably from 0.8 to 2.0 wt.-%, and most preferably from 1.0 to 1.8 wt.-%, such as from 1.2 to 1.6 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2). It is especially preferred that the amount of groups deriving from polar groups in the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) is higher than the amount of the groups deriving from polar groups in the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2), e.g. by at least 0.5 wt.-% higher, like in the range of 0.5 to 1.5 wt.-% higher.

Thus in one specific preferred embodiment the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) is a random propylene ethylene copolymer grafted with maleic anhydride, more preferably wherein the ethylene content based on the total amount of the random propylene ethylene copolymer is in the range of 2.0 to 7.5 wt.-%, more preferably in the range of 4.0 to 7.0 wt.-% and/or the amount of groups deriving from the maleic anhydride in the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) is from 0.5 to 3.0 wt.-%, more preferably from 0.8 to 2.0 wt.-%, and most preferably from 1.0 to 1.8 wt.-%, such as from 1.2 to 1.6 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2), further preferably with the proviso that the amount of groups deriving from the polar group, like the maleic anhydride, in the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) is higher than the amount of the groups deriving from the maleic anhydride in the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2), e.g. by at least 0.5 wt.-% higher, like in the range of 0.5 to 1.5 wt.-% higher.

Preferred values of the melt flow rate MFR₂ (190° C.; 2.1 kg) measured according to ISO 1133 for the polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) are from 1.00 to 500 g/10 min, like in the range of 20 to 150 g/10 min.

The polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) can be produced in a simple manner by reactive extrusion of the polymer, for example with maleic anhydride in the presence of free radical generators (like organic peroxides), as disclosed for instance in EP 0 572 028.

The polar modified polypropylene (PMP2) is known in the art and commercially available. A suitable example is SCONA TPPP 8112 FA of BYK.

In case the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises a mixture of polar modified polypropylenes, the mixture preferably comprises the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) as defined above and the one or more further polar modified polypropylene(s) (PMP2) in a specific weight ratio. Preferably, the mixture comprises the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) as defined above and the one or more further polar modified polypropylene(s) (PMP2) in a weight ratio ranging from 20:1 to 2:1, more preferably from 15:1 to 2:1 and most preferably from 10:1 to 5:1. In one embodiment, the mixture comprises the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) as defined above and the one or more further polar modified polypropylene(s) (PMP2) in a weight ratio ranging from 9:1 to 8:1.

Optional Components

The fiber reinforced polymer composition may comprise further optional components. To further improve the processability it might be advantageous to add a further polymer with high melt flow rate. Thus it is preferred that the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises an additional polypropylene (PP2) having a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C., 2.16 kg) measured according to ISO 1133 of >100 g/10 min, more preferably in the range of >100 to 2000 g/10 min, even more preferably in the range of 100 to 1500 g/10 min, still more preferably in the range of 200 to 1000 g/10 min and most preferably in the range of 350 to 800 g/10 min.

In the present invention the term “polypropylene (PP2)” encompasses propylene homopolymers, propylene random copolymers, heterophasic polymers and mixtures thereof.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the polypropylene (PP2) being present in the fiber reinforced polymer composition is a propylene homopolymer (H-PP3) and/or a propylene copolymer (C-PP3). For example, the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises a propylene homopolymer (H-PP3) and a propylene copolymer (C-PP3).

Alternatively, the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises a propylene homopolymer (H-PP3) or a propylene copolymer (C-PP3) as polypropylene (PP2).

In one specific embodiment the polypropylene (PP2) is a propylene copolymer (C-PP3), preferably a heterophasic propylene copolymer (HECO2) as defined in detail below.

Preferably, the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises a propylene homopolymer (H-PP3) as the polypropylene (PP2).

In the following the polypropylene (PP2) being part of the fiber reinforced polymer composition will be defined in more detail.

In order to further improve the stiffness of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, the polypropylene (PP2) is preferably a propylene homopolymer (H-PP3) with high melt flow rate.

Thus, it is preferred that the fiber reinforced polymer composition comprises a propylene homopolymer (H-PP3) as polypropylene (PP2), the propylene homopolymer (H-PP3) having a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C., 2.16 kg) measured according to ISO 1133 of >100 g/10 min, more preferably in the range of >100 to 2000 g/10 min, even more preferably in the range of 100 to 1500 g/10 min, still more preferably in the range of 200 to 1000 g/10 min and most preferably in the range of 350 to 800 g/10 min.

Exceptional good results are obtained if the polypropylene (PP1) is a propylene homopolymer (H-PP1) and the polypropylene (PP2) is a propylene homopolymer (H-PP3).

It is preferred that the propylene homopolymer (H-PP3) and the propylene homopolymer (HPP1) fulfil together the inequation (Ia), preferably inequation (Ib), even more preferably inequation (Ic), yet more preferably inequation (Id)

$\begin{matrix} {\frac{{MFR}\mspace{14mu} \left( {{HPP}\; 3} \right)}{{MFR}\left( {{HPP}\; 1} \right)} \geq 10.0} & ({Ia}) \\ {10.0 \leq \frac{{MFR}\mspace{14mu} \left( {{HPP}\; 3} \right)}{{MFR}\left( {{HPP}\; 1} \right)} \leq 40.0} & ({Ib}) \\ {15.0 \leq \frac{{MFR}\mspace{14mu} \left( {{HPP}\; 3} \right)}{{MFR}\left( {{HPP}\; 1} \right)} \leq 35.0} & ({Ic}) \\ {20.0 \leq \frac{{MFR}\mspace{14mu} \left( {{HPP}\; 3} \right)}{{MFR}\left( {{HPP}\; 1} \right)} \leq 30.0} & ({Id}) \end{matrix}$

wherein MFR (HPP3) is the melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C.) [g/10 min] of the polypropylene (H-PP3) and MFR (HPP1) is the melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C.) [g/10 min] of the propylene homopolymer (H-PP1).

Preferably the weight ratio between the propylene homopolymer (H-PP1) and the propylene homopolymer (H-PP3) [(H-PP1)/(H-PP3)] is from 5.0 to 20.0, more preferably in the range of 7.0 to 15.0, like in the range of 10.0 to 12.0.

The propylene homopolymer (H-PP3) is state of the art and commercially available. A suitable propylene homopolymer is for instance HL504FB of Borealis AG.

The Article

The invention is also directed to an article comprising the fiber reinforced polymer composition according to this invention. Preferably the article comprises at least 80 wt.-%, like 80 to 99.9 wt.-%, more preferably at least 90 wt.-%, like 90 to 99.9 wt.-%, yet more preferably at least 95 wt.-%, like 95 to 99.9 wt.-%, of the fiber reinforced polymer composition according to this invention. In one embodiment the article consists of the fiber reinforced polymer composition according to this invention.

Preferably, the article is a molded article, preferably an injection molded article or a foamed article.

The article can be a part of washing machines or dishwashers or automotive articles, especially of car interiors and exteriors.

Preferred automotive articles are selected from the group consisting of instrumental carriers, shrouds, structural carriers, bumpers, side trims, step assists, body panels, spoilers, dashboards, interior trims and the like.

Automotive articles are typically molded articles, preferably injection molded articles as well as foamed articles. Preferably the automotive articles, especially those defined in the previous paragraph are injection molded articles.

The fiber reinforced polymer composition of the present invention can be also used for the production of articles, preferably molded articles, more preferably injection molded articles as well as foamed articles.

In a further aspect, the present invention also refers to the use of the fiber reinforced polymer composition of the present invention for the production of articles, such as parts of washing machines or dishwashers as well as automotive articles, especially of car interiors and exteriors, like instrumental carriers, shrouds, structural carriers, bumpers, side trims, step assists, body panels, spoilers, dashboards, interior trims and the like.

In the following the invention is described in more detail.

EXAMPLES 1. Definitions/Measuring Methods

The following definitions of terms and determination methods apply for the above general description of the invention as well as to the below examples unless otherwise defined.

Quantification of Microstructure by NMR Spectroscopy

Quantitative nuclear-magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is used to quantify the isotacticity and regio-regularity of the polypropylene homopolymers.

Quantitative ¹³C {¹H} NMR spectra were recorded in the solution-state using a Bruker Advance III 400 NMR spectrometer operating at 400.15 and 100.62 MHz for ¹H and ¹³C respectively. All spectra were recorded using a ¹³C optimised 10 mm extended temperature probehead at 125° C. using nitrogen gas for all pneumatics.

For polypropylene homopolymers approximately 200 mg of material was dissolved in 1,2-tetrachloroethane-d₂ (TCE-d₂). To ensure a homogenous solution, after initial sample preparation in a heat block, the NMR tube was further heated in a rotatary oven for at least 1 hour. Upon insertion into the magnet the tube was spun at 10 Hz. This setup was chosen primarily for the high resolution needed for tacticity distribution quantification (Busico, V., Cipullo, R., Prog. Polym. Sci. 26 (2001) 443; Busico, V.; Cipullo, R., Monaco, G., Vacatello, M., Segre, A. L., Macromolecules 30 (1997) 6251). Standard single-pulse excitation was employed utilising the NOE and bi-level WALTZ16 decoupling scheme (Zhou, Z., Kuemmerle, R., Qiu, X., Redwine, D., Cong, R., Taha, A., Baugh, D. Winniford, B., J. Mag. Reson. 187 (2007) 225; Busico, V., Carbonniere, P., Cipullo, R., Pellecchia, R., Severn, J., Talarico, G., Macromol. Rapid Commun. 2007, 28, 11289). A total of 8192 (8 k) transients were acquired per spectra.

Quantitative ¹³C {¹H} NMR spectra were processed, integrated and relevant quantitative properties determined from the integrals using proprietary computer programs.

For polypropylene homopolymers all chemical shifts are internally referenced to the methyl isotactic pentad (mmmm) at 21.85 ppm.

Characteristic signals corresponding to regio defects (Resconi, L., Cavallo, L., Fait, A., Piemontesi, F., Chem. Rev. 2000, 100, 1253; Wang, W-J., Zhu, S., Macromolecules 33 (2000), 1157; Cheng, H. N., Macromolecules 17 (1984), 1950) or comonomer were observed.

The tacticity distribution was quantified through integration of the methyl region between 23.6-19.7 ppm correcting for any sites not related to the stereo sequences of interest (Busico, V., Cipullo, R., Prog. Polym. Sci. 26 (2001) 443; Busico, V., Cipullo, R., Monaco, G., Vacatello, M., Segre, A. L., Macromolecules 30 (1997) 6251).

Specifically the influence of regio-defects and comonomer on the quantification of the tacticity distribution was corrected for by subtraction of representative regio-defect and comonomer integrals from the specific integral regions of the stereo sequences.

The isotacticity was determined at the pentad level and reported as the percentage of isotactic pentad (mmmm) sequences with respect to all pentad sequences:

[mmmm]%=100*(mmmm/sum of all pentads)

The presence of 2,1 erythro regio-defects was indicated by the presence of the two methyl sites at 17.7 and 17.2 ppm and confirmed by other characteristic sites. Characteristic signals corresponding to other types of regio-defects were not observed (Resconi, L., Cavallo, L., Fait, A., Piemontesi, F., Chem. Rev. 2000, 100, 1253).

The amount of 2,1 erythro regio-defects was quantified using the average integral of the two characteristic methyl sites at 17.7 and 17.2 ppm:

P _(21e)=(I _(e6) +I _(e8))/2

The amount of 1,2 primary inserted propene was quantified based on the methyl region with correction undertaken for sites included in this region not related to primary insertion and for primary insertion sites excluded from this region:

P ₁₂ =I _(CH3) +P _(12e)

The total amount of propene was quantified as the sum of primary inserted propene and all other present regio-defects:

P _(total) =P ₁₂ +P _(21e)

The mole percent of 2,1-erythro regio-defects was quantified with respect to all propene:

[21e]mol.-%=100*(P _(21e) /P _(total))

Characteristic signals corresponding to the incorporation of ethylene were observed (as described in Cheng, H. N., Macromolecules 1984, 17, 1950) and the comonomer fraction calculated as the fraction of ethylene in the polymer with respect to all monomer in the polymer.

The comonomer fraction was quantified using the method of W-J. Wang and S. Zhu, Macromolecules 2000, 33 1157, through integration of multiple signals across the whole spectral region in the ¹³C {¹H} spectra. This method was chosen for its robust nature and ability to account for the presence of regio-defects when needed. Integral regions were slightly adjusted to increase applicability across the whole range of encountered comonomer contents.

The mole percent comonomer incorporation was calculated from the mole fraction.

The weight percent comonomer incorporation was calculated from the mole fraction.

MFR₂ (230° C.) is measured according to ISO 1133 (230° C., 2.16 kg load).

MFR₂ (190° C.) is measured according to ISO 1133 (190° C., 2.16 kg load).

MFR (170° C.) is measured in line with the general definitions of ISO 1133 (170° C., 1.2 kg load).

DSC analysis, melting temperature (Tm) and melting enthalpy (Hm), crystallization temperature (Tc) and crystallization enthalpy (Hc): measured with a TA Instrument Q200 differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) on 5 to 7 mg samples. DSC is run according to ISO 11357/part 3/method C₂ in a heat/cool/heat cycle with a scan rate of 10° C./min in the temperature range of −30 to +225° C. Crystallization temperature and crystallization enthalpy (Hc) are determined from the cooling step, while melting temperature and melting enthalpy (Hm) are determined from the second heating step.

The glass transition temperature Tg is determined by dynamic mechanical analysis according to ISO 6721-7. The measurements are done in torsion mode on compression moulded samples (40×10×1 mm³) between −100° C. and +150° C. with a heating rate of 2° C./min and a frequency of 1 Hz.

Density of the polymer composition is measured according to ISO 1183-187. Sample preparation is done by compression molding in accordance with ISO 1872-2:2007.

The xylene cold solubles (XCS, wt.-%): Content of xylene cold solubles (XCS) is determined at 25° C. according to ISO 16152; first edition; 2005 Jul. 1

Intrinsic viscosity is measured according to DIN ISO 1628/1, October 1999 (in Decalin at 135° C.).

Tensile Modulus; Tensile strength are measured according to ISO 527-2 (cross head speed=1 mm/min; 23° C.) using injection molded specimens as described in EN ISO 1873-2 (dog bone shape, 4 mm thickness).

Average fiber diameter is determined according to ISO 1888:2006(E), Method B, microscope magnification of 1000.

Charpy notched impact strength is determined according to ISO 179 1eA at 23° C. by using an 80×10×4 mm³ test bars injection molded in line with EN ISO 1873-2.

Catalyst Preparation:

Used Chemicals:

2-ethylhexanol, provided by Amphochem

3-Butoxy-2-propanol—(DOWANOL™ PnB), provided by Dow

bis(2-ethylhexyl)citraconate, provided by SynphaBase

TiCl4, provided by Millenium Chemicals

Toluene, provided by Aspokem

Viscoplex® 1-254, provided by Evonik

Heptane, provided by Chevron

3.4 litre of 2-ethylhexanol and 810 ml of propylene glycol butyl monoether (in a molar ratio 4/1) were added to a 201 reactor. Then 7.8 litre of a 20% solution in toluene of BEM (butyl ethyl magnesium) provided by Crompton GmbH, were slowly added to the well stirred alcohol mixture. During the addition the temperature was kept at 10° C. After addition the temperature of the reaction mixture was raised to 60° C. and mixing was continued at this temperature for 30 minutes. Finally after cooling to room temperature the obtained Mg-alkoxide was transferred to a storage vessel.

21.2 g of Mg alkoxide prepared above was mixed with 4.0 ml bis(2-ethylhexyl) citraconate for 5 min. After mixing the obtained Mg complex was used immediately in the preparation of the catalyst component.

19.5 ml of titanium tetrachloride was placed in a 300 ml reactor equipped with a mechanical stirrer at 25° C. Mixing speed was adjusted to 170 rpm. 26.0 g of Mg-complex prepared above was added within 30 minutes keeping the temperature at 25° C. 3.0 ml of Viscoplex® 1-254 and 1.0 ml of a toluene solution with 2 mg Necadd 447™ was added. Then 24.0 ml of heptane was added to form an emulsion. Mixing was continued for 30 minutes at 25° C., after which the reactor temperature was raised to 90° C. within 30 minutes. The reaction mixture was stirred for a further 30 minutes at 90° C. Afterwards stirring was stopped and the reaction mixture was allowed to settle for 15 minutes at 90° C. The solid material was washed 5 times: Washings were made at 80° C. under stirring for 30 min with 170 rpm. After stirring was stopped the reaction mixture was allowed to settle for 20-30 minutes and followed by siphoning.

Wash 1: Washing was made with a mixture of 100 ml of toluene and 1 ml donor

Wash 2: Washing was made with a mixture of 30 ml of TiCl₄ and 1 ml of donor.

Wash 3: Washing was made with 100 ml of toluene.

Wash 4: Washing was made with 60 ml of heptane.

2. Examples

The following inventive example IE1 and comparative examples CE1 and CE2 were prepared by compounding on a co-rotating twin-screw extruder (ZSK 40 from Coperion).

The following process parameters were used:

-   -   throughput of 100 kg/h     -   screw speed of 100-150 rpm     -   barrel temperatures of 250° C. flat     -   die plate with 5 mm holes, whereby 3 holes were opened.

The polymer and the additives different from the carbon fibers as well as glass fibers were fed to the extruder and melt-kneaded in the 4^(th) barrel of the extruder which consists of three kneading blocks (two times a KB 45/5/40, followed by a KB 45/5/20 LH) and a left-handed conveying element. The carbon fibers and glass fibers were added in the 6^(th) barrel using a side feeder. A second kneading zone located in the 8^(th) barrel and consisting of three kneading blocks (KB 45/5/20) was used to distribute the carbon fibers and glass fibers homogeneously. Moreover, two TME elements (one TME 22.5/20 and one TME 22.5/20 LH) located between the 8^(th) and the 9^(th) barrel were used to further distribute the carbon fibers and glass fibers.

Table 1 summarizes the composition of the inventive and comparative examples and their properties

TABLE 1 Overview of composition and mechanics for inventive and comparative examples IE 1* CE 1* CE 2* PP1 [wt.-%] 58.56 48.25 PP-1 [wt.-%] 8 PP2 [wt.-%] 6.01 29.75 PP-2 [wt.-%] 26.05 Fibers 1 [wt.-%] 40 Fibers 2 [wt.-%] 10.2 40 Carbon fibers [wt.-%] 20.17 PMP [wt.-%] 4.15 PMP2 [wt.-%] 0.51 2 Density [g/cm³] 1.082 1.23 1.24 Tensile modulus [MPa] 11674 8130 7258 Tensile strength [MPa] 132 134 140 Charpy impact 179 [kJ/m²] 9.44 11.5 28 1eA +23° C. *remaining part up 100 wt.-% are typical additives like antioxidants.

“PP1” is the commercial propylene homopolymer HF955MO of Borealis AG having a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C.) of 19.5 g/10 min and a melting temperature of 167° C.;

“PP-1” is a propylene block copolymer and has been prepared in a stirred tank reactor having a volume of 45 dm³ which was operated as liquid-filled at a temperature of 20° C. and a pressure of 54 bar. Into the reactor was fed propylene so much that the average residence time in the reactor was 0.36 hours together with 0.98 g/h hydrogen, 70 g/h of ethylene and 4.3 g/h of a polymerisation catalyst prepared according to Catalyst Preparation described above with triethyl aluminium (TEA) as a cocatalyst and dicyclopentyldimethoxysilane (DCPDMS) as external donor so that the molar ratio of TEA/Ti was about 76 mol/mol and TEA/DCPDMS was 8 mol/mol. The slurry from this prepolymerisation reactor was directed to a loop reactor having a volume of 150 dm³ together with 170 kg/h of propylene and hydrogen so that the molar ratio of hydrogen to propylene was 0.044 mol/kmol. The loop reactor was operated at a temperature of 80° C. and a pressure of 51 bar. The production rate of propylene copolymer was 29 kg/h and the melt flow rate MFR₂ was 0.12 g/10 min.

The polymer slurry from the loop reactor was directly conducted into a first gas phase reactor operated at a temperature of 80° C. and a pressure of 20 bar. Into the reactor were fed additional propylene and hydrogen, as well as nitrogen as inert gas, so that the content of propylene was 83% by mole and the ratio of hydrogen to propylene was 0.8 mol/kmol. The production rate in the reactor was 47 kg/h and the polymer withdrawn from the reactor had a melt flow rate MFR₂ of 0 g/10 min. The split of the polymer produced in the loop reactor to the polymer produced in the gas phase reactor was 52:48.

The polymer from the first gas phase reactor was conducted into a second gas phase reactor operated at a temperature of 60° C. and a pressure of 16 bar. Into the reactor were fed additional propylene, ethylene and hydrogen, as well as nitrogen as inert gas, so that the content of propylene was 63% by mole, the ratio of ethylene to propylene was 550 mol/kmol, the ratio of hydrogen to ethylene was 22 mol/kmol and the ratio of hydrogen to propylene was 75 mol/kmol. The production rate in the reactor was 11 kg/h. The polymer was withdrawn from the reactor and the hydrocarbons were removed by purging with nitrogen.

The polymerization conditions and some properties of PP-1 are outlined in table 2 below.

TABLE 2 PP-1 Prepol Temperature, ° C. 20 Loop Temperature, ° C. 80 Loop H2/C3 mol/kmol 0.044 Loop MFR2, g/10 min 0.12 Loop XS, % by weight 3.2 GPR1 Temperature, ° C. 80 GPR1 Pressure, Bar 20 GPR1 H2/C3 mol/kmol 0.8 GPR1 MFR2, g/10 min 0 GPR1 XS, % by weight 2.1 Split, Loop:gpr1 52:48 GPR2 Temperature, ° C. 60 GPR2 Pressure, Bar 16 GPR2 H2/C3, mol/kmol 75 GPR2 C2/C3, mol/kmol 550 Final MFR2, g/10 min 0.30 Final C2-content % by weight (mole)  9.7 (13.9) Final XS, % by weight 27 Split (Loop + gpr1):gpr2 74:26 IV of AM, dl/g 2.3 C2-content % of AM % by weight (mole) 42 (52) Total catalyst productivity, kg PP/g cat 4.0 Mg-content in polymer, ppm 40 AM denotes the fraction which remains soluble in xylene at 25° C.

“PP2” is the commercial propylene homopolymer HL504FB of Borealis AG having a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C.) of 450 g/10 min and a melting temperature of 161° C.;

“PP-2” is the commercial propylene homopolymer HJ120UB of Borealis AG having a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C.) of 75 g/10 min and a melting temperature of 130 to 170° C.;

“Fiber 1” is the glass fiber ECS 03 T-480H of NEG having a nominal diameter of 10 μm and an average length of 4.5 mm before production;

“Fiber 2” is the glass fiber TufRov 4599 of PPG having a nominal diameter of 17 μm and is an endless roving before production, about 10 mm length after pelletizing;

“Carbon fiber” is a non-woven fabric comprising 80 wt.-% of carbon fibers and has been produced by needle-punching: The carbon fibers have an average diameter of 7 μm.

“PMP” is the ethylene polypropylene copolymer (functionalized with maleic anhydride)

“TSPP3598 GB” of BYK Co. Ltd, Germany, having a MFI (170° C.) of 71 g/10 min and a maleic anhydride content of 2.2-2.4 wt.-%, wherein further the ethylene polypropylene copolymer has an ethylene content of 5.6 wt.-%;

“PMP2” is the ethylene polypropylene copolymer (functionalized with maleic anhydride)

“TPPP8112 FA” of BYK Co. Ltd, Germany, having a MFR₂ (190° C.) of more than 80 g/10 min and a maleic anhydride content of 1.4 wt.-%.

It can be gathered that the inventive example IE1 comprising carbon fibers as well as fibers other than carbon fibers in combination with a specific polar modified polypropylene in a polypropylene matrix has well-balanced mechanical properties such as excellent stiffness and sufficient impact, at reduced density and thus at light weight. 

1: Fiber reinforced polymer composition comprising: (a) from 20 to 89 wt. %, based on the total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of a polypropylene (PP1); (b) from 5 to 60 wt. %, based on the total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of carbon fibers (CF); (c) from 5 to 60 wt. %, based on the total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of fibers (F) other than carbon fibers (CF); and (d) from 1 to 10 wt. %, based on the total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of a polar modified polypropylene (PMP) as coupling agent, wherein the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) comprises groups derived from polar groups in an amount of from 1 to 5 wt. %, based on the total weight of the polar modified polypropylene (PMP). 2: The fiber reinforced polymer composition according to claim 1, wherein the polypropylene (PP1) has: (a) a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C., 2.16 kg) measured according to ISO 1133 of not more than 100 g/10 min; and/or (b) a melting temperature T_(m) in the range of 158 to 170° C. 3: The fiber reinforced polymer composition according to claim 1, wherein the polypropylene (PP1) is a propylene homopolymer (H-PP1). 4: The fiber reinforced polymer composition according to claim 1, wherein the carbon fibers (CF) are in the form of a non-woven fabric. 5: The fiber reinforced polymer composition according to claim 4, wherein the non-woven fabric comprises at least 50 wt. % carbon fibers (CF), based on the total weight of the non-woven fabric. 6: The fiber reinforced polymer composition according to claim 1, wherein the fibers (F) are selected from the group comprising glass fibers, metal fibers, mineral fibers, ceramic fibers and mixtures thereof. 7: The fiber reinforced polymer composition according to claim 1, wherein the carbon fibers (CF) and/or the fibers (F) comprise a sizing agent. 8: The fiber reinforced polymer composition according to claim 1, wherein the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) comprises groups derived from polar groups selected from the group consisting of acid anhydrides, carboxylic acids, carboxylic acid derivatives, primary and secondary amines, hydroxyl compounds, oxazoline and epoxides, and also ionic compounds. 9: The fiber reinforced polymer composition according to claim 1, wherein the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) is a propylene polymer grafted with maleic anhydride. 10: The fiber reinforced polymer composition according to claim 9, wherein the polar modified polypropylene (PMP) is a propylene copolymer grafted with maleic anhydride comprises ethylene as comonomer units. 11: The fiber reinforced polymer composition according to claim 1, wherein the fiber reinforced polymer composition further comprises from 1 to 10 wt. %, based on the total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition, of a polypropylene (PP2) having a melt flow rate MFR₂ (230° C., 2.16 kg) measured according to ISO 1133 of >100 g/10 min. 12: The fiber reinforced polymer composition according to claim 1, wherein the fiber reinforced polymer composition further comprises at least one additive in an amount of up to 20 wt. %, based on the total weight of the fiber reinforced polymer composition. 13: The fiber reinforced polymer composition according to claim 1, wherein the fiber reinforced polymer composition has: (a) a density of equal or less than 1.200 g/cm³; and/or (b) a tensile modulus according to ISO 527-2 of at least 8200 MPa; and/or (c) a tensile strength according to ISO 527-2 in the range of 100 to 150 MPa. 14: An article comprising a fiber reinforced polymer composition according to claim
 1. 15: The article according to claim 14, wherein the article is a molded article. 16: The article according to claim 14, wherein the article is a part of washing machines or dishwashers or automotive articles. 